How to Start a Floor Hockey Game? The Ultimate Guide

Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to start a floor hockey game. If you are new to this sport or just looking for a refresher, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know from setting up the playing field to understanding the rules of the game.

Floor hockey is a fast-paced and exciting sport that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. It is a great way to stay active and socialize with friends and family. Whether you are playing in a recreational league or just for fun, learning the basics of the game is essential.

By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of how to set up the playing field, choose the equipment, select teams and positions, understand the rules of the game, and start the game while keeping score. So, let’s get started and learn how to start a floor hockey game like a pro!

Read on to discover everything you need to know to get started with floor hockey and become a pro at the game. Let’s get the ball rolling!

Setting Up the Playing Field

Before starting a floor hockey game, it is essential to set up the playing field correctly. First, choose a flat and smooth surface for the court. Avoid surfaces with cracks or bumps that can cause injuries to players. Then, use tape or paint to mark the boundaries of the court. Make sure the markings are visible and clear to avoid any confusion during the game. Lastly, place the goals at each end of the court and ensure that they are securely fixed.

The dimensions of the court can vary depending on the age group and skill level of the players. However, a standard court is 85 feet long and 44 feet wide. In addition, the goals should be 6 feet apart and 4 feet high. These dimensions ensure a fair and challenging game for all players involved.

Another essential aspect of setting up the playing field is ensuring proper lighting. Good lighting ensures that players can see the ball clearly and reduces the risk of injuries. Make sure that the court is well-lit, especially if playing indoors. Natural lighting is ideal, but if playing indoors, install bright lights to illuminate the playing field.

Indoor vs Outdoor Play

1. Surface: One of the primary differences between indoor and outdoor floor hockey is the playing surface. Indoor hockey is played on a hard, smooth surface, such as a gymnasium floor or an indoor rink. Outdoor hockey, on the other hand, is played on a variety of surfaces, such as concrete, asphalt, or sport court tiles.
2. Weather Conditions: Another important difference is the effect of weather conditions. Indoor hockey is not affected by weather conditions such as rain, wind, or extreme temperatures. Outdoor hockey, on the other hand, is heavily influenced by weather conditions, which can impact the game in various ways.
3. Equipment: The type of equipment used can also differ depending on whether you’re playing indoor or outdoor hockey. For indoor hockey, players typically wear non-marking court shoes and use lighter sticks with plastic blades. Outdoor hockey requires more durable sticks with wooden or composite blades, and players often wear cleats or outdoor shoes for better traction on different surfaces.

Deciding whether to play indoor or outdoor hockey largely depends on your personal preferences and resources. If you have access to an indoor facility and prefer a more controlled and consistent environment, indoor hockey may be the way to go. However, if you enjoy playing in nature and are willing to deal with weather conditions and surface variations, outdoor hockey can be a thrilling experience.

Dimensions of the Court

Knowing the proper dimensions of the court is crucial when setting up a floor hockey game. A standard court measures 85 feet in length and 44 feet in width, with a centerline marking the court in half.

The goals are situated on opposite ends of the court, with a goal crease measuring 6 feet wide and 4 feet deep. Additionally, there is a safety zone in front of each goal crease that is 15 feet wide and 10 feet deep.

It’s essential to have the correct measurements when setting up the court to ensure a fair and competitive game.

Choosing the Equipment

Sticks: Floor hockey sticks come in different lengths and materials. Wooden sticks are typically heavier and more durable, while composite sticks are lighter and provide better ball control. Choose the stick that best suits your needs.

Balls: Floor hockey balls are made of plastic and come in different sizes and weights. Choose a ball that is appropriate for your playing surface and level of play. If playing on a hard surface, use a heavier ball to prevent it from bouncing too much.

Protective Gear: Safety should be a top priority when playing floor hockey. Make sure to wear shin guards, gloves, and a helmet to protect yourself from injury. If you’re playing in a league, check if there are any specific equipment requirements.

Nets: Floor hockey nets come in different sizes and materials. Choose a net that is appropriate for your level of play and playing surface. If playing on a hard surface, use a heavier net to prevent it from moving around too much.

The Essential Equipment You Need

Sticks: Floor hockey sticks come in different sizes and materials, but the most common are made of plastic. The right size and length are essential for proper handling and control of the ball.

Ball: The ball used in floor hockey is usually made of plastic and is similar to a street hockey ball. It should be light and durable enough to handle being hit and bounced around on the playing surface.

Goals: Goals can be made of plastic or metal and come in different sizes. The standard size is 4 feet wide by 6 feet long. A netting system is used to catch the ball when it enters the goal.

Protective gear: While floor hockey is a non-contact sport, players should wear protective gear to prevent injury. This may include shin guards, mouthguards, and helmets.

Selecting Teams and Positions

Before starting a floor hockey game, it’s essential to determine the number of players on each team. Most teams have 6 players, including the goalkeeper, but it can vary depending on the number of players available.

When selecting teams, it’s important to balance the skill levels of the players to make the game more enjoyable and fair. Captains can also be appointed to choose teams or select players based on their experience.

Each player’s position also plays a crucial role in the game. The goalkeeper is the last line of defense, while forwards and defensemen work together to move the ball and protect their own goal. It’s essential to choose players that are best suited for each position.

Lastly, it’s important to ensure that players wear different colored jerseys to distinguish the teams. The goalie’s jersey should also be different from the other players to avoid confusion.

How to Divide the Players into Teams

Random Selection: One way to divide the players into teams is by randomly selecting names or numbers out of a hat. This method ensures that the teams are evenly matched, and there is no bias towards one player over another.

Pre-Selected Teams: If you are playing with a group of friends or family members, you may already have pre-selected teams. In this case, make sure the teams are evenly matched based on skill level, size, and age.

Captains Pick: Another option is to have two captains choose their teams one player at a time. The captains take turns picking until all players are assigned to a team. This method allows for strategic team-building and can be a fun way to get everyone involved.

Switching Teams: If one team is consistently winning, consider switching up the teams halfway through the game to make it more challenging and exciting for everyone.

The Role of Each Position in Floor Hockey

Floor hockey is a fast-paced, exciting game that requires teamwork, strategy, and skill. In order to be successful, each player must understand their specific role and how it contributes to the overall success of the team. There are three main positions in floor hockey: forwards, defensemen, and goalies.

Forwards: The forwards are responsible for creating scoring opportunities and putting the puck in the net. They are typically the most skilled and offensive-minded players on the team. Forwards need to be fast, agile, and have good stickhandling abilities. They must also be able to anticipate the play, read the defense, and make quick decisions on the fly.

Defensemen: The defensemen are responsible for preventing the other team from scoring. They are typically the larger and more physical players on the team. Defensemen need to be strong skaters, have good balance, and be able to use their body to block shots and clear the puck out of their own zone. They must also be able to anticipate the play and make quick decisions under pressure.

Goalies: The goalies are responsible for stopping the other team from scoring. They are the last line of defense and play a crucial role in the success of the team. Goalies need to be quick, agile, and have excellent hand-eye coordination. They must also be able to anticipate the play and make split-second decisions.

Strategy: In order for a team to be successful, each player must understand their specific role and how it fits into the team’s overall strategy. This means that players need to communicate with each other, make quick decisions on the fly, and be willing to make sacrifices for the good of the team. Successful teams are able to adapt to different situations and adjust their strategy accordingly.

1. Forwards: Responsible for creating scoring opportunities and putting the puck in the net.
2. Defensemen: Responsible for preventing the other team from scoring.
3. Goalies: Responsible for stopping the other team from scoring.
4. Strategy: Each player must understand their specific role and how it fits into the team’s overall strategy.

Table: The table below summarizes the key responsibilities of each position in floor hockey.

Position	Responsibility	Skills Required
Forwards	Create scoring opportunities and put the puck in the net.	Speed, agility, stickhandling, anticipation.
Defensemen	Prevent the other team from scoring.	Strength, balance, physicality, anticipation.
Goalies	Stop the other team from scoring.	Quick reflexes, agility, hand-eye coordination, anticipation.

Substitutions and Time-Outs

During a game of floor hockey, teams can make substitutions at any time, but they must do so during a stoppage in play. Substitutions allow players to rest, recover, and strategize before returning to the game. The number of players allowed on the bench and the number of substitutions permitted can vary depending on the league or tournament rules. Coaches typically manage the substitution process, deciding when to make changes based on their team’s performance and the opponent’s tactics.

Time-outs can also be taken during a game, giving teams a chance to regroup and discuss tactics. In most leagues, each team is allowed one time-out per game, which can last for up to one minute. However, some leagues may have different rules regarding time-outs, so it’s important to check the specific rules before the game. Time-outs can be called by the coach, the team captain, or a player on the court if they possess the ball.

• Communication is key during substitutions and time-outs. Players need to be aware of who is coming on and off the court and what the new game plan is.
• Substitutions can be used strategically to give certain players more playing time, depending on their strengths and weaknesses. For example, a team may substitute a player with strong defensive skills during a critical moment in the game.
• During a time-out, teams can use the opportunity to assess the opponent’s tactics and make adjustments accordingly. This can include changing offensive or defensive strategies or adjusting the line-up to counter the opponent’s strengths.
• It’s important to use substitutions and time-outs wisely, as they can impact the flow and momentum of the game. Coaches and players need to make quick decisions and communicate effectively to ensure the best possible outcome for their team.

Overall, substitutions and time-outs are important tools for teams to use during a game of floor hockey. They allow for rest, recovery, and strategic planning, which can ultimately lead to a better performance on the court. By communicating effectively and using these tools wisely, teams can maximize their potential and increase their chances of success.

Understanding the Rules of the Game

Rules are an essential component of any sport, and floor hockey is no exception. Floor hockey has a set of rules that are enforced to ensure that the game is played fairly and safely. Some of the most important rules of floor hockey include the prohibition of high-sticking, body-checking, and tripping.

Another important rule in floor hockey is the offside rule. This rule is designed to prevent players from camping out in the offensive zone and waiting for a pass. To avoid being offside, players must have both feet on their side of the centerline when the puck crosses into the offensive zone.

The penalty box is another feature of floor hockey that players need to be familiar with. Players who commit fouls or other infractions may be sent to the penalty box for a set period of time, during which their team must play with one fewer player on the rink.

Scoring System and Goalie Rules

Scoring system: In floor hockey, the objective of the game is to score more goals than the opposing team. Each goal is worth one point. If the game ends in a tie, an overtime period can be played to determine a winner. If the overtime period ends in a tie, a shootout can be used to determine a winner.

Goalie rules: The goalie is a crucial position in floor hockey, and they have some unique rules to follow. The goalie is the only player allowed to use their hands or feet to touch the ball. The goalie is also not allowed to leave their designated area, known as the crease. If the goalie leaves the crease, they will receive a penalty. However, they are allowed to move side to side within the crease to defend the goal.

Penalties: If a player violates one of the rules in floor hockey, they may receive a penalty. Penalties can result in the player being sent to the penalty box for a certain amount of time, or they can result in a penalty shot for the opposing team. Goalies can also receive penalties, such as leaving the crease or throwing their stick. It is important for players to understand the rules and avoid penalties, as they can significantly impact the outcome of the game.

Penalties and Infractions

In floor hockey, like any other sport, players can receive penalties for breaking the rules. When a penalty occurs, the offending player must sit in the penalty box for a designated amount of time. During this time, their team must play shorthanded, which means they have one less player on the floor. It is important for players to understand the types of penalties and infractions in order to avoid them and keep their team at full strength.

One common penalty in floor hockey is tripping. This occurs when a player uses their stick or body to trip another player. Another infraction is high-sticking, which happens when a player raises their stick above their waist and makes contact with another player. Other penalties include slashing, checking from behind, and roughing, among others.

Penalties and infractions can be costly for a team, especially if they occur frequently. It is important for players to learn the rules and avoid breaking them, as it can lead to lost opportunities and even lost games. By staying disciplined and playing within the rules, players can help their team succeed and enjoy the game.

Face-offs and Offsides

Face-offs are used to start the game, begin each period, and restart play after a goal or penalty. The puck is dropped between two players from each team who try to gain possession of it. For offsides, players are not allowed to enter the offensive zone before the puck does. If a player enters the offensive zone early, they will be called for an offsides infraction, and the play will stop. The face-off will then take place outside of the offending team’s zone. Offsides can be confusing for new players, but it is essential to understand this rule to avoid committing infractions.

Starting the Game and Keeping Score

Game Start: Floor hockey begins with a face-off at center court. The players line up on their respective sides of the center line, and the referee drops the ball. After that, the game is on!

Scoring: A goal is scored when the ball completely crosses the goal line into the net. Each goal is worth one point. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

Assists: An assist is awarded to the player who passes the ball to the goal scorer. If two players pass the ball before a goal is scored, both players get an assist.

Timekeeping: Floor hockey games are typically divided into two halves, with each half lasting 20-25 minutes. The clock is stopped during timeouts and penalties.

Tiebreakers: In the event of a tie game, most leagues use a sudden-death overtime period to determine a winner. If neither team scores during the overtime period, the game ends in a tie.

Starting the Game with a Face-off

Face-off is the most common way to start a game. A referee drops the ball/puck on the playing surface between two players of opposing teams. The two players then try to gain control of the ball/puck, which signals the start of the game.

The position of the face-off is determined by the center face-off circle, which is located at center ice. The position of the face-off is also determined by the last place the ball/puck was touched before the stoppage of play.

Players must remain stationary and have their sticks on the ground at the start of the face-off. A player is not allowed to touch the ball/puck with their hand, and the game will stop immediately if any player commits a violation.

How to Keep Score and Determine the Winner

Scoring in floor hockey is quite simple. A point is awarded each time the ball crosses the opposing team’s goal line. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

If the game ends in a tie, an overtime period may be played to determine the winner. Overtime periods can vary in length, but most often they are five minutes long. If no one scores during overtime, a shootout may be held to determine the winner.

It is important to keep track of the score during the game. The scorekeeper should keep track of goals scored by each team and communicate the score to the players and spectators regularly.

At the end of the game, the referee or official scorekeeper will declare the winner based on the number of points scored by each team.

It is important to note that some leagues or tournaments may have specific tiebreaker rules in place, so it is important to familiarize yourself with these rules before playing.

Frequently Asked Questions